In this inaugural edition of my Vancouver Tripster column I’ve compiled a list of holiday and Christmas events within walking, transit or driving distance of the city. Future editions leading up to Christmas and New Year’s Eve will continue the holiday theme.
VANCOUVER
Vancouver Christmas Market
Think giant nutcracker dolls, live gingerbread people and sausage, lots and lots of sausage. This annual event, celebrating its sixth year at Queen Elizabeth Theatre Plaza, is modelled after similar markets traditionally found across Europe, complete with one-of-a-kind gifts, including vintage Christmas sweaters and “Christmas pickles,” seasonal entertainment, Glühwein and spirits, and enough food choices to please everyone, gluten intolerant or not. The kids will love the Christmas carousel and child-friendly activities. The market opens Nov. 21 and runs through Dec. 24. Anyone who purchases their tickets online will receive a free season pass. Visit vancouverchristmasmarket.com.
CandyTown
While Yaletown is best known for chic urban shops, smart eateries and the hunting ground for singles on the TV series First Dates, on Nov. 21 the ‘hood transforms into a candy-coated land of dreams every child (and dentist) imagines with a festival dedicated to all things sweet. The fourth annual festival will once again draw on a seasonal candy theme for this free outdoor Christmas celebration. The festival runs along Mainland Street, which will be transformed into a winter wonderland with horse-drawn carriage rides, visits with Santa and the Ice Queen, Christmas arts and crafts and, of course, candy and more candy. CandyTown is in support of the B.C. Children’s Hospital and Starlight Children’s Foundation. Visit yaletowninfo.com.
VICTORIA
Christmas Ferris Wheel
At 20-metres tall, you can probably see your house from atop Victoria’s Christmas Ferris Wheel in Centennial Square, which puts a spin on holiday celebrations. It also offers the best view of holiday lights across the garden city, including the square and downtown for just $2. The wheel opens Nov. 28, with entertainment, photo opportunities and more. Visit downtownvictoria.ca. B.C. Ferries is making it even easier to visit by offering 50 per cent off on select standard vehicle sailings on all routes. Visit bcferries.com.
SEATTLE
The annual Holidays in Seattle campaign launches Nov. 27, and continues through Jan. 1 with activities and attractions, including The Nutcracker at the Pacific Northwest Ballet, Seattle Center Winterfest, Argosy Cruises’ Christmas Ship Festival, Seattle Symphony, Seattle Repertory Theatre, Fifth Avenue Theatre and the Holiday Carousel at Downtown’s Westlake Park. Already in full swing is the HolidaysinSeattle.com website, featuring a comprehensive schedule of events, maps, guides, hotel packages and more.
Of note
Next Wednesday, Nov. 25, Insight Vacations will be in Vancouver for its annual Travel Showcase taking place at the Four Seasons Hotel, 791 Georgia St., at 7 p.m. The event is an opportunity for Vancouverites to learn more about Europe, new must-see destinations and meet veteran tour directors who will share some of their insider knowledge on travel. This year, both Cris David, president of Insight Vacations Canada, and John Boulding, global CEO of Insight Vacations, will be attending and presenting at the show.
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